Being active in the home
With the weather being colder and the mornings and evenings longer – we don’t always want to go outside to be active. However, we can be active in our homes. Trying an online workout on your laptop, phone or TV. Incorporating movement into the house, squats when going to the toilet! Walking up and down the stairs a few times a day. Doing press ups on the counter whilst waiting for food to cook. Many ways to build activity into the house.
Wrap up warm and make it fun
Being outside is great for our physical and mental health. So, if you can get out and about at least once a day – excellent! Wrapping up warm and making your outdoor adventure more fun is a great way to battle the winter blues. Put on an interesting podcast. Listen to your favourite album. Or go with a friend or family member. Maybe turn it into an activity with the kids. Playing Spot, It, or giving yourself something to aim for on your walk can be motivating.
Natural daylight
Getting natural daylight in the winter months is key. Daylight helps boosts our mood, helps us sleep better and stops us getting those winter blues. Exposure to sunlight helps regulate a hormone called melatonin, which is key to helping us sleep. A good night’s sleep is essential for our health and wellbeing. Exposure to natural light also helps produce another hormone called serotonin, our feel-good hormone! Even if it’s just 5 minutes between calls or meetings. Get outside for a few mins in the morning, afternoon or evening, it helps.
We’ve all had a few funny months of uncertainty around socialising. However, now is the time to go for an autumnal walk with a friend, co-worker or family member. Connecting with others is essential to maintaining good health and wellbeing. We are not supposed to be isolated as human-beings. So meeting up with a good friend or family member, or taking a lunch time walk with a colleague, is a great way to be active and social.
